Encore’s Joseph is a high energy winner

Encore Repertory Company has continued its winning streak with a dazzling, high-energy production of Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, a musical retelling of the story from the Book of Genesis.

Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice created a jaunty score for the show, which features several memorable tunes. This is a “sung through” musical, meaning there’s little spoken dialogue.

Joshua Lawson was an appealing and sympathetic Joseph, who is one of the 12 sons of Jacob (Bob Sullivan). Joseph draws the resentment of his 11 brothers due to his “coat of many colors” and is later sold into slavery to some passing Ishmaelites. The rest of the story focuses on Joseph’s adventures in Egypt, which include his dealings with Pharaoh (Alex Cuellar).

Lawson soared on the ballad “Close Every Door.” Cuellar displayed a sexy Elvis Presley-type vocal on “Song of the King.” Amanda Palmer was superb as the Narrator, especially on “Poor Poor Joseph” and “Stone the Crows.” Another highlight was “Those Canaan Days,” a lament by Joseph’s brothers about their recent misfortune.

The direction by Meaghan Bruneault was polished and confident. This was a good-looking show, with superb work from the art and costume departments. The orchestra, led by musical director Alex Tirrell, was in fine form. Kathy Fortier‘s choreography was sparkling and fun to watch.

Overall, this was an upbeat and joyous show thanks to the talents of all the performers and behind-the-scenes technicians.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, directed by Meaghan Bruneault, by Encore Repertory Company, at Stadum Theatre, 28 Monument Sq, Woonsocket. Through April 9. Telephone: (401)762-4545 Web: www.encorerepco.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheEncoreRepertoryCompany